DIY Wedding Makeup: Airbrush or Traditional Foundation?

As I’m starting to get serious about my wedding planning (about 10 months to go!) I’ve been sucked into the debate of traditional vs. airbrush makeup.

I’m planning on doing my own makeup for the big day, because I’m obviously comfortable doing my own face and also because we’re trying to keep our expenses low. In fact, I hear of a lot of brides doing this more now using resources like YouTube makeup tutorials.

I’ve had makeup artists use airbrush systems on me for special events and photoshoots, and I always marveled at the outcome. Smooth, even coverage that still somehow looked like my own skin— like a real life Snapchat filter. Yet, I use traditional foundation on a daily basis and applying it comes as second nature— similarly to most women, I would dare to say— and I’m used to how it looks on me.

So the question is: if you DIY your wedding makeup, should you go with airbrush or traditional foundation? Ultimately, it’s all about what you’re comfortable with. However, here are some situations where airbrush makeup may be the right way to go.

You have a lot of blemishes or hyper-pigmentation

I find airbrush makeup to do a really great job at offering custom coverage to even out the complexion. You all know I struggle with acne as well as scarring, and airbrushing makes them disappear under fine layers of makeup without having to blend for days. You can also concentrate the air gun on more noticeable blemishes and the coverage stays seamless with the rest of your face.

You want your makeup to look natural

I personally use Luminess Airbrush Foundation, which offers different finishes depending on the look you’re going for. However, I find most airbrush makeup to look extremely natural on the skin. Because you’re layering such thin layers of foundation, your natural skin texture shows through so you avoid a fake mask look.

You need your makeup to last all day

Airbrush makeup is most well known for its lasting power. The fine mist really grabs hold of your skin, and locks on for 10+ hours depending on the formula. This is one of the main reasons why it’s favored for wedding makeup, as you won’t have to worry as much about touchups or fading. It’s also transfer-proof, which is pretty important when you’re wearing a white dress.

You hate how traditional makeup feels

Maybe you’re just not a foundation person at all, but still want to look a little more “done up” on your big day. Airbrush makeup feels weightless, as if you’re not wearing makeup at all. Even as you layer up for coverage, or to add blush and highlighter, you don’t feel weighed down.

Over the years, airbrush makeup has become much more accessible for at-home use without having to hire a professional makeup artist. I have the Luminess Legend Airbrush System at home, which is super compact and portable, yet packs a punch when applying makeup. It gives me the quality of professional makeup, and I can use it whenever I want!

It definitely takes practice getting used to the system if you’re switching from brushes, but the difference is pretty obvious. In my opinion, it’s probably easier for a beginner to do professional-looking makeup using an airbrush system than trying to blend with sponges or brushes. I especially surprised myself when using the system to do blush for the first time. It looked way better than I’ve ever done with brushes.

So what is the cost? The system I use costs $249, which includes the machine itself and a starter kit of makeup— primer, foundation, bronzer, highlight and blush. Depending on your location, this could be cheaper than hiring a makeup artist, plus you can use it over and over again. No more booking makeup counter appointments for various events, you have the best tool at home!

Luckily, I also have a coupon code to offer the Slashed Squad if you’re interested in taking the leap into airbrush makeup! Use code SlashedBeauty25 to get 25% off your Luminess Airbrush system (or anything else on the website)! Or you can send that code to one of your girls and hint towards a bridal shower gift… 😉

As I get better and better at airbrushing myself, I’m almost certain this is what I’ll be doing for my own wedding makeup this November.

The after is incredible. Most of the bridal artists where I am not only charge for the day of the wedding but also for a practice date – and don’t forget the tip to them. If you are confident enough to use the Luminess I think it’s a great idea.

I can actually see wanting a pro on your wedding day, though. Getting married is nerve-wracking enough without worrying about makeup perfection. I’m sure it’s calming to sit back and let someone else do it.